Titus Law Office PLLC Titus Law Office, PLLC 2026-10-16T14:37:08Z https://www.tituslawoffice.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1605428/2022/03/cropped-titusfavicon-32x32.png On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[3 common questions after a first DUI in Minnesota]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50470 2026-10-16T14:37:08Z 2026-10-16T14:37:08Z Will I lose my driver license immediately? Your physical driver license is confiscated during booking, but your driving privileges do not end instantly. Law enforcement issues a temporary license valid for 14 days following a breath test failure, or seven days if testing was conducted via a blood or urine test under a search warrant. Administrative license revocation begins after that initial temporary permit period. Under state law current as of October 2026, a first offense with a blood alcohol concentration under 0.16 carries a standard 90-day administrative revocation. However, if you plead guilty to a misdemeanor offense, the revocation period drops to 30 days. Drivers may apply for a limited license to commute to work after a mandatory 15-day waiting period. Another option is to install an ignition interlock device to maintain full driving privileges during revocation.

Will I go to jail for a first offense?

A standard first DUI without aggravating factors is charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor. State law allows maximum penalties up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. First-time offenders rarely serve maximum jail terms unless aggravating circumstances exist, such as:
  • A blood alcohol concentration of 0.16 or higher
  • Refusing to submit to a lawful chemical breath test
  • Having a child under 16 years old in the vehicle
These aggravating factors elevate the charge to a gross misdemeanor, which increases potential jail time to 12 months and fines to $3,000.

Will everyone know about my arrest?

DUI arrests are public record, but administrative license plate impoundment—which triggers special registration plates—does not automatically apply to every first-time charge. Plate impoundment for a first offense is triggered if your test result measures 0.16 or higher, if a child under 16 was in the vehicle, or if you refused chemical testing.

Protecting your rights after an arrest

Deadlines to challenge a license revocation move quickly in state courts. Speaking with a local defense attorney helps you evaluate the evidence and choose the best path forward.  ]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Can you get charged for someone else’s drugs in Minnesota?]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50464 2026-09-17T10:22:37Z 2026-09-17T08:49:25Z Imagine you are driving a friend’s car in Minnesota when a police officer pulls you over. During a lawful search, the officer discovers a hidden stash of controlled substances. Even if those substances are not yours and you had no prior knowledge of them, they can still investigate you and potentially charge you with a serious felony. In Minnesota, prosecutors may rely on constructive possession to argue that you “possessed” the drugs even without physically holding them. Understanding how the state uses factors such as access, control and the surrounding circumstances—can help you recognize legal risks.

What is constructive possession?

Unlike actual possession, where law enforcement found drugs directly on you, constructive possession is more indirect. Constructive possession concerns you controlling the area where police discovered the controlled substances.  Minnesota courts have held that you may receive charges if you had both the intent and the ability to exercise control over those drugs. In other words, even if the substances were not in your hand, pocket or bag, the law may still treat the situation as “possession.” This theory can allow prosecutors to bring charges based on drugs found in your vehicle, your home or other areas you control. Under this approach, the key issue is straightforward. Did you know the drugs were there, and did you have the ability to access or control them?

Why shared spaces are a risk

If you live with a roommate, share a car or invite guests, you can still face charges when police find drugs. You may tell them that they are not yours, but the court may still decide you knew or had control over the substances. The more access you have to the area, the more likely the state will consider constructive possession.

Defending against constructive possession

Even if prosecutors may claim you had “obvious control” over a space, it may actually not hold up to scrutiny. When facing drug possession charges, do not assume the case against you is solid. An experienced Minnesota legal professional can help you examine the specific facts of your case. The difference between conviction and dismissal often lies in a sound legal strategy.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Inheritance drama: How siblings may clash in probate]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50460 2026-08-12T19:33:34Z 2026-08-12T19:33:34Z Accusations that the executor is playing favorites One of the most common conflicts happens when beneficiaries suspect the personal representative (executor) is mishandling the estate. Sometimes these concerns are legitimate, like when an executor delays distributions for months without explanation or refuses to share financial records. Other times, siblings simply don't understand how probate works. They expect immediate payment when the process actually takes months. Or claim the distributions are unfair, despite the executor following Minnesota intestacy laws or a parent's will.

Claims that the will isn't accurate

Another sibling might argue that Mom was confused when she signed her will, or that someone pressured her into changing it. Minnesota law allows will contests based on specific grounds: These challenges require real evidence, not just hurt feelings about being left out. Courts don't overturn wills simply because the distribution seems unfair.

Arguments about what certain gifts actually mean

Disputes might also arise over who gets specific items. One sibling insists Mom promised her the china. Another says Dad wanted him to have the truck. Without written documentation, these claims are hard to prove or disprove. For probate assets, the will controls unless it's successfully contested. Verbal promises, even if they happened, typically don’t override a valid will or other written estate planning documents. This reality causes significant family friction, especially when the will feels like a final statement of who was loved more.

Prevention beats damage control

Many of these probate disputes stem from misunderstanding the process rather than actual wrongdoing. Executors who communicate regularly, provide timely accountings and follow the will's instructions can head off most conflicts.
When questions do arise, getting legal guidance early often resolves issues before they damage relationships permanently. A properly executed will and transparent administration make it much harder for baseless challenges to gain traction.
]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[When your teenager outgrows the old parenting plan]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50457 2026-07-21T15:25:28Z 2026-07-21T15:23:55Z The shift from playdates to first dates Between sports, part-time jobs and preparing for life after graduation, a teenager's availability changes. Minnesota law recognizes that a child’s best interests are not static and may require a modification of parenting time when circumstances have changed and an update would better serve the child’s best interests. Several factors often signal that an existing parenting plan can benefit from a review:
  • Increased school workloads and college prep needs
  • Participation in sports or clubs that require travel
  • The child’s maturing preference regarding their home life
  • Changes in a parent’s work hours or home location
Addressing these shifts early can prevent friction and help maintain a positive relationship between both parents and the teenager.

Modernizing the blueprint for a new chapter

A modification can involve practical adjustments that make a significant impact on your lifestyles and relationships. You might decide to:
  • Move to a week-on, week-off schedule to limit mid-week travel
  • Set clear agreements about driving, car access, and who pays for gas, insurance and repairs
  • Grant more autonomy for social and work commitments
  • Put basic expectations (e.g., curfews, expectations and discipline) in writing so both parents are on the same page
These changes acknowledge the changes your child may be going through while also providing guidance for parents as a child matures.

Negotiation can prioritize stability

Adjusting a Minnesota parenting plan does not always require a high-conflict battle in a courtroom. Many parents find that mediation or collaborative negotiation allows them to create a flexible schedule that respects a teenager’s growing independence. By focusing on the child’s current needs, you can reach an agreement that provides clarity for everyone involved without the stress of a protracted dispute.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Can an out-of-state DWI follow me back to Minnesota?]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50455 2026-06-23T17:11:05Z 2026-06-23T17:11:05Z The invisible link between state agencies Minnesota can receive notice of many out-of-state traffic and impaired-driving convictions through interstate reporting systems, including the Driver License Compact, which is an agreement between most states to share information about traffic convictions. When a Minnesota resident is convicted of an alcohol-related driving offense in a state like Iowa or South Dakota, that state typically notifies the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). An out-of-state impaired-driving conviction can trigger Minnesota license consequences, sometimes similar to those that would apply if the offense happened in Minnesota. For instance:
  • Your Minnesota driver’s license may be revoked, suspended or otherwise restricted based on the out-of-state report
  • Depending on the offense and your record, you might be required to use the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program to regain driving privileges
  • The offense may be recorded on your Minnesota driving record and remain visible for years
Ignoring an out-of-state DUI/DWI case or conviction will not prevent these local penalties from taking effect.

Managing the administrative fallout

While a drunk driving criminal case occurs in the state where a person was arrested, the administrative battle plays out at home. In other words, even if a driver avoids jail time in Iowa, the Minnesota DPS can still take independent action against that person's license. This can result in a confusing situation where you may face two different sets of rules at the same time. Speaking with a lawyer in Minnesota after an out-of-state DUI or DWI can help ensure you cover your legal bases. Doing so reduces the risk of being stopped and cited or arrested in Worthington for driving after revocation or while not validly licensed.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[After a parent dies: What happens to their unpaid bills and debts?]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50453 2026-05-21T19:10:05Z 2026-05-21T19:10:05Z parent’s death can leave more than grief in its wake. It can also bring a sudden stack of bills, collection notices and confusing questions about who must pay what. In the middle of planning a funeral and supporting family members, many people find themselves trying to sort out financial obligations they did not expect to face. This post explains what typically happens to a parent’s unpaid bills and debts after death. You will learn how debts are handled through the estate process, which obligations may be paid from estate assets and when relatives may or may not be personally responsible. You will also find practical guidance on next steps to take, documents to gather, and common misconceptions to avoid.

What does the estate pay for?

The estate, or the assets owned by your parents, typically cover the following:
  • Funeral and administration costs, often given high priority under state law  
  • Secured debts such as mortgages or car loans, where the lender can claim the collateral if payments stop  
  • Taxes and certain government claims, which may have elevated priority  
  • Unsecured debts such as credit cards and medical bills, paid if the estate has enough funds
If the estate is insolvent, many unsecured creditors may receive only partial payment or nothing. Importantly, heirs usually inherit only what remains after paying valid debts and expenses.

When might relatives have to pay the bills?

A common misconception is that children must pay a parent’s bills. Typically they do not, unless there is a separate legal basis for liability. This distinction is especially important when collectors call soon after a death. Below are the most common situations where a relative could be responsible:
  • You co-signed the loan or you are a joint account holder on the debt  
  • You agreed in writing to be responsible, including certain care facility agreements (which should be reviewed carefully)  
If none of these apply, you can usually direct creditors to the estate representative. You should avoid paying from your own funds unless an attorney confirms you have personal liability.

What should I do if a debt collector calls?

Do not give any financial information. Instead, it can help to ask the debt collector to send information about the debt in writing. This step also helps to reduce the risk of falling victim to a scam. Debt collectors are not allowed to use fear tactics or pressure. It is likely the individual is a scammer if the person calling is using vulgar language or otherwise demanding urgency. 

Practical next steps and documents to gather

Start by locating the will, trust documents, recent bank statements, property deeds, loan statements, insurance policies and a list of recurring bills. Order multiple certified death certificates. Notify Social Security, pension administrators and insurers. Keep records of all calls and letters, and do not give collectors your personal financial information. The estate handles most unpaid bills, with payment dependent on available estate assets and legal priority rules. Relatives are not automatically responsible, but co-signing, joint debt or certain state laws can change the outcome. When in doubt, consult a local probate attorney, especially if the estate is insolvent or creditors are pressuring the family.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Child custody after divorce: Five tips to set children up for success]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50443 2026-05-12T09:11:12Z 2026-04-23T19:00:01Z Your children will not remember every detail of your divorce, but they will remember how safe, loved and supported they felt while your family changed. With thoughtful co-parenting, many children adjust well after divorce and continue to thrive, especially when both parents stay actively involved. Shared custody can give young children what they need most: steady relationships with both parents, predictable routines and clear reassurance that the divorce is an adult decision — not a child’s fault. Co-parenting can also help to reduce conflict, prevents kids from feeling caught in the middle and creates consistency across two homes. When parents communicate respectfully and make decisions with their child’s needs at the center, children often gain resilience and confidence in both homes. The following will discuss how shared custody and healthy co-parenting can protect your child’s well-being after divorce. It will also provide practical tips to ease transitions and support your child’s feelings, helping to better ensure they can move forward into a successful post-divorce life with both parents firmly in their corner.

Custody arrangements that support co-parenting 

Plans that cover routine issues can mitigate the risk of frustrations when co-parenting. A clear plan is often beneficial. As such, parents who are looking for a strong co-parenting relationship should consider the following when putting together a parenting plan:
  1. Parenting schedule: Outline the logistics for school nights, weekends, holidays, vacations and notice regarding any potential travel.  
  2. Decision-making: Have a plan for decisions regarding the child’s education, healthcare, activities, religion and technology limits. 
  3. Communication rules: Clear expectations and methods for communication can reduce the risk of conflict. Include guidelines about response times, approved apps to aid in the logistics of co-parenting and how to handle child contact during the other parent’s time.
  4. Transitions: It is often wise to include pickup locations, late policies and handoff routines.
  5. Conflict process: Come up with a plan to handle disagreements. This often includes mediation first, then the use of a parenting coordinator and, if unable to reach a resolution, court intervention.
When putting this information into a plan, consider the child’s schedule. Map school start times, homework blocks, therapy sessions and extracurriculars like sports or music. Then build parent time around that calendar. Younger children often need shorter gaps between parent contact while teens often need flexibility for social schedules, activities and jobs. A child-centered custody arrangement balances structure with adaptability. Co-parenting that emphasizes low conflict, consistent routines and active involvement from both parents supports healthier child development. A detailed agreement reduces misunderstandings, lowers stress and gives children room to thrive.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[First-time DWI in Minnesota: What happens next]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50390 2026-05-12T09:11:26Z 2026-03-26T07:13:38Z A first-time DWI triggers immediate penalties and starts a fast-moving court process. Knowing each step helps you act early and protect your rights.

Immediate consequences after arrest

After booking, the state imposes administrative penalties separate from your criminal case. The state revokes your license right away and may change your vehicle status. Key outcomes often include:
  • License revocation: The state suspends your license for 90 days if your BAC is under 0.16 and up to one year for higher BAC or test refusal.
  • Plate impoundment: The state may require restricted “whiskey plates”.
  • Vehicle impoundment: Authorities may hold your vehicle.
  • Conditional release: The court may impose monitoring or restrictions.
These steps happen before any conviction. They can affect your ability to drive, work and manage daily tasks.

How the legal process unfolds

Your case moves through several court stages. Each stage builds on the last and affects the outcome. You can expect:
  • Arraignment: The court reads the charges and you enter a plea.
  • Pre-trial conference: Attorneys review evidence and may negotiate.
  • Implied consent hearing: You must act within a limited time to challenge license revocation.
Minnesota law treats impaired driving as a public safety issue. Minnesota Statutes § 169A.27 classifies the first offense as a misdemeanor, unless aggravating factors apply.

Possible penalties if convicted

A first offense usually results in a fourth-degree DWI charge. Penalties vary based on BAC and other factors. You may face:
  • Jail time: The court can impose up to 90 days, but often orders probation.
  • Fines: The court can impose up to $1,000 plus court costs.
  • Education programs: The court may require alcohol education or treatment.
  • Ignition interlock: The state may allow limited driving with this device.
Courts often emphasize supervision and require strict compliance in first-offense cases. A conviction remains on your record and can negatively affect insurance rates, employment opportunities and your ability to travel.

When it may help to speak with a lawyer

A first-time DWI involves strict deadlines and overlapping legal processes. You must act quickly to protect your license and respond to the criminal charge. An attorney reviews the stop, test results and procedures used in your case. They explain possible defenses and prepare you for each stage of the process.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Accused of theft for the first time in Minnesota? What to know]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50388 2026-02-16T04:10:56Z 2026-02-16T04:10:56Z Defining theft and charge levels in Minnesota Minnesota defines theft broadly. Allegations may involve shoplifting, keeping property without permission or using deception to obtain goods or services. The value of the property often affects how authorities classify the charge, although other details may also influence the outcome. The alleged property value may place the accusation into one of the following charge categories: Minnesota may classify theft accusations into the following charge categories based on value:
  • Misdemeanor classification: Property valued at $500 or less may fall into a misdemeanor allegation.
  • Gross misdemeanor category: Property valued over $500 and up to $1,000 may lead to a gross misdemeanor allegation.
  • Felony designation: Property valued over $1,000 and up to $5,000 may raise a felony allegation.
Prior theft history within the last five years may also affect classification in some situations.

Understanding the early process and potential consequences

After an accusation, you may get a citation or face arrest based on the situation. Early steps may include an investigation, a charging decision and a first court date. Courts may review reports, video, receipts and witness statements tied to the claim. Outcomes can vary. You may face restitution, fines, probation or possible jail time depending on the charge and facts. In some cases, a record may affect job checks or housing reviews. The type of claim, the value involved and the available proof may shape what happens next.

What happens between accusation and resolution

After a first theft accusation, the period before resolution may involve waiting for charging decisions, court scheduling or case review. During this time, you may receive updates that clarify the direction of the case or change earlier assumptions. Recognizing that early stages often involve uncertainty may help you interpret new developments.]]> On Behalf of Titus Law Office, PLLC <![CDATA[Can a family member sue you for assault after a scuffle?]]> https://www.tituslawoffice.com/?p=50377 2026-01-20T08:09:43Z 2026-01-20T08:09:43Z What qualifies as assault under Minnesota law? State law generally defines assault as intentionally causing harm, no matter how minor, or doing something that makes another person fear immediate physical danger. When these incidents happen between family members, the law classifies them as Domestic Assault. This means even a heated family argument involving shoving, grabbing or slapping can meet the legal definition of a crime. You do not even have to touch the other person to be at risk. If your words or gestures make a family member reasonably fear that they are about to be hurt, that might be enough to count as assault.

How do criminal charges differ from civil lawsuits?

You may assume that that assault is strictly a criminal matter. However, Minnesota law allows victims to pursue both criminal and civil actions separately. Criminal charges are brought by the state and can result in penalties such as fines, probation or jail time. A prosecutor decides whether to file charges based on the evidence and circumstances of the incident. A civil lawsuit is a separate legal action where the injured party seeks monetary compensation for their damages. This can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and emotional distress. You could face charges from the county attorney and a civil lawsuit from your family member at the same time. Additionally, even if the prosecutor drops criminal charges or never files them, your relative can still pursue a civil claim.

What are possible defense strategies?

Self-defense is one of the most common arguments raised in these situations. While the law allows you to use reasonable force to protect yourself, the force must be proportional to the threat. For example, responding to a verbal insult with a punch would likely not qualify as legal self-defense. It is worth noting that Minnesota generally follows a "Duty to Retreat" rule outside of your own home. This means that before you use physical force, the law requires you to attempt to leave the situation or de-escalate if you can do so safely. Another potential defense focuses on intent. If the contact was genuinely accidental—for example, you were gesturing wildly during an argument and accidentally struck someone—it may not meet the legal requirement for assault, which requires an intentional act to inflict harm or fear.]]>